Alumni generosity funds care packages for isolating students

Published: 04 February 2021

Alumni generosity has funded 300 care packages for isolating students at St George’s. The packages include key contact details of welfare staff as well as tea, coffee, food and items to support self care and have been distributed to students’ addresses. 

The initiative was supported by alumni donations through the Mental Health and Well-being Fund. The Fund has helped contribute to a range of well-being services across St George’s, including the Students’ Union Education and Welfare Support Officer role and Togetherall, a platform for anonymous, 24-hour online support.   

Sabbatical Officers at the Students’ Union created the packages to show their support to isolating students who are struggling during these difficult times, and to remind them that the St George’s community is thinking of them. They have delivered just over 100 packages so far. 

Students’ Union Vice President (Education), Sarah Jones, says, “We know that our students can feel left out and forgotten when they have to isolate - especially those outside of halls. This will no doubt help them feel thought of, and part of the community”. 

Chief Operating Officer, Tim Sice, says, "We are mindful of the various issues confronting the students during the pandemic especially those that have had to self-isolate. While we continue to give support through online advice and encouragement, sometimes it’s nice to actually receive something as a reminder that you are not forgotten - that as a Union we are there for you and that things will be all right in the end. 

“The Students’ Union is grateful for the financial support provided by the alumni of St George’s that has, and will, enable us to deliver gift boxes to those students in most need. The response has been great and acts as a reminder of how the Students’ Union and the alumni team can work together to enhance the student experience at St George’s during these strange and unsettling times."